How to Create Meaningful Connections While Networking
Networking is a word that often gets thrown around casually in the business community. But what does it mean to build a truly meaningful connection while networking? Being genuine with everybody you talk to can mean the difference between sticking out in someone’s memory and remaining just another face in the crowd. For some people, genuine networking conversation comes naturally. Luckily for the others, this is a skill that can be improved upon by using a few techniques and practices that will help to create meaningful connections.
Pay Attention to Existing Connections Many people get so caught up in building a huge network that they end up neglecting the connections they’ve already made. Existing clients and customers can be invaluable gateways to other resourceful connections. Treat them not as numbers in your network, but as people – because they are. The next time you have tickets to an event, invite an existing connection and provide them with the option to bring one or two friends, family, or colleagues. You might be surprised at how many connections you can make when focused purely on the people instead of the numbers. Just be sure not to follow up with a client or customer’s guest unless invited. Building connections takes time, and you don’t want to ruin a good first impression by being too pushy.
Provide Value Another common mistake in the world of networking is asking one of your connections for a favor before providing any value yourself. When entering into a new relationship, it’s important to show the other person how they will benefit from your involvement. It doesn’t need to be anything elaborate, or even a physical gift or appearance. Start by forwarding them information or articles that you think they can actually benefit from. Give them a call once a month (or however often seems appropriate) to offer your help on their most recent project. Even if they don’t respond or accept, simply offering and providing value will place you in a better light when the time comes to ask them for a favor.
Seek Stories Storytelling is everything – it’s existed since the birth of humankind and, to this day, it’s how all of the most successful people build their brand (personal or otherwise). While you’re networking with new connections, engage in conversation that encourages stories instead of just answers. Instead of asking, “How was your week?” try asking, “What was the highlight of your week?” Instead of, “Where are you from?” try, “What is your hometown like?” Stories are more memorable, whether you’re speaking or listening. People will be much more willing to open up about themselves if the situation feels more conversational and less pressured.
Remember to Follow Up The worst thing you can do after building a new connection is letting it fall to the wayside. It’s easy to get caught back into the day-to-day responsibilities after a successful networking event, but forgetting to follow up will mean that it was all for nothing. Make it easier for yourself by taking brief notes on business cards that you acquire. Jot down a couple details about the people you meet that will make for a better follow up than a copied/pasted “Hi, it was great meeting you!” You can also use the conversation as on opportunity to provide some value as discussed earlier. Whatever way you do so, just be sure to follow up.
Conclusion Networking can be tricky – whether you’re in the heat of the moment or you’re continuing to build a relationship over time, creating meaningful connections with the people you meet is essential. Conduct yourself in a memorable, genuine manner and you will receive genuine help from the people who enter your network.